Jun
24
2009
If your baby is under the weather your doctor will normally suggest that you monitor their body temperature. There are two reasons for this. Firstly it gives you an indication of the status of the illness – a falling temperature could indicate that the illness is getting better while a rising temperature could indicate that the illness is getting worse. Secondly, it enables you to ensure that core body temperature does not rise to dangerously high levels.
Up until very recently the favored method of monitoring a baby’s temperature was via the rectal route. Although this gives a very accurate temperature reading the disadvantages of this approach are obvious. Firstly it requires planning and cooperation. Secondly it is unpleasant for your baby and not particularly kind if he or she is already feeling unwell. Thirdly, it takes time for the reading to stabilize.
One great method that is now available to all is the baby ear thermometer. Up until relatively recently these were purely for professional use only – i.e. for use by doctors or nurses in clinics. These were a fantastic development as they meant that the temperature of many babies could be established extremely rapidly and accurately whilst using non-intrusive methods. However, now the price has come down by so much that they are available and affordable to all households.
Baby ear thermometers work by quantifying levels of invisible radiation called infra-red. All warm objects give off infra-red radiation including our bodies and by measuring the amounts given off using electrical sensors it is possible to calculate the temperature of the source. And, unlike conventional thermometers the measurement and calculation is virtually instantaneous.
The ear represents one of the optimal sites for measuring body temperature. Inserting a small sensor into the ear causes minimal discomfort and stress. The ear is also not affected by fluctuations in local temperature (such as inside the mouth for instance where recent hot or cold drinks can have a big impact).
Using a bay ear thermometer is very straightforward. The very simplest just involve inserting the sensor into the ear the pushing a button. Typically the result is available within seconds.
Although predominantly intended for babies there is absolutely no reason why they can’t be used by other members of the family – even up to adults. They are also very easy to clean so there is no risk of transferring ear infections from one member of the family to the other.
To conclude baby ear thermometers are one of the best ways of measuring the temperature of your baby – quick and painless. Although they used to be expensive the prices have come down now somewhat so they are accessible to most homes. They are a great investment and, although particularly good for babies, they can be used for the whole family.
